The Kings’ GM confirmed Thursday night on a separate media call that Smyth, via agent Don Meehan, asked for a trade almost two months ago. When TSN’s Bob McKenzie broke the story earlier this week, Lombardi intensified efforts to get a deal done.

“I’m not in a great position here,” Lombardi said on the media call. “I hope to have this wrapped up in a day or two.”

Lombardi said he was dealing with two teams and wouldn’t mention which ones, but sources confirmed Alberta rivals Calgary and Edmonton are bidding on Smyth.

Another NHL source said the Oilers at first tried to dump Sheldon Souray on the Kings a few weeks ago. Lombardi said no thanks, and talks stalled between Edmonton and Los Angeles. The news Thursday that the Flames entered the picture seemed to reignite the Oilers, who likely could not stomach seeing the former Oilers star play in Flames colors. Both the Oilers and Flames held further trade talks with the Kings on Thursday, sources confirmed.

As of Thursday night, one source said the Flames and Oilers were neck and neck for Smyth’s services. Calgary was trying to move salary, namely Robyn Regehr, to make complete a deal for Smyth.